Safe Working for Archaeologists as part of UK Construction Projects

The FAME Health and Safety Working Group creates Health and Safety Guides, to provide detailed practical advice to our members and for the archaeological sector. This guide focuses on presenting an overview of managing health and safety on constructions sites in the UK. However, while the laws and guidance are specific to the UK, much of the best practice and process are applicable to any country.

“Field-based commercial archaeology is often undertaken in advance of or alongside construction and the rules, regulations and approved codes of practice relevant to the construction industry can for the most part be readily applied to archaeology when carried out in a construction environment. Whilst the ‘standard’ methodologies, and many of the procedures and equipment used to ensure Health and Safety across the construction industry are applicable in an archaeological context, they may require additional risk assessment and adaptation to ensure that they are suitable and proportionate. Above all, the health and safety of those undertaking or affected by the activity must be considered holistically and must ensure that the high standards of archaeological investigation, recovery and recording required by UK planning legislation are delivered. The health, safety and wellbeing of all involved must remain the foremost concern.”

You can download the guide below. They rarely change but occasional updates do occur and it is best to check this page for the most recent version.